Richard pulled over to the side of the road. “Are you ladies all right?” He didn’t know what to think or do.

The women straightened up, got back into their seats, and buckled up. “I guess we should have done this sooner,” Isabelle said sheepishly as she clicked herself in. “Sorry, Richard. We just got in a laughing fit. Don’t you pay us no mind. We’re just happy to be away from our husbands. Ya know?”

Richard peered into the rearview mirror. “I suppose. I’m not married.” And I hope I’ll never be . . . at least to anything like you two, he thought to himself.

Primrose Path was just a few short blocks from the hospital, so they had the option of walking, but first, it was unpack, change, and visit Mrs. Brewster. They were hoping one of the other women would have some information on Brewster’s sister in Boulder. Nikki was going to check legal records, and Maggie was checking the press.

When the vehicle stopped at the lodge, Richard assisted the women as they got out, removed their bags from the back of the SUV, and brought them to the front door. He could not get back in the vehicle fast enough and peeled out as Monique/Alexis was waving a twenty-dollar bill.

“Wait! Richard! Your tip!”

He just kept on driving.

Alexis and Isabelle were doubled over with hilarity. “If only he knew what we really did to certain people.” Isabelle could barely get the words out.

Yolanda opened the front door and stared, with her mouth agape. She knew that Isabelle and Alexis were coming. But who were these two?

“Yolanda!” Isabelle blurted. “It’s us. We were practicing for a masquerade party! What do you think?”

“I think I have no idea who you are.” Yolanda looked at them with suspicion. “Miss Annie said to expect Isabelle and Alexis.”

Alexis was the first one to remove her wig. Isabelle followed.

“Oh, my Lord! The two of you had me going there! Come in! Come in! Your rooms are ready. Monte! Monte! Come get the girls’ luggage.” Yolanda led them through the foyer, then into the massive living room with vaulted ceilings.

“I forgot how magnificent this place is!” Isabelle looked out the floor-to-ceiling windows. They afforded a spectacular view of the mountains, still with snow-covered peaks.

“Yes. Stunning,” Alexis said in agreement.

Monte called from the entry. “Hey, girls! Nice to see you! Where do you want me to put your stuff?”

The guest rooms were almost identical, each with a private bath, a balcony, and a view.

“Wherever. The black luggage is mine. The tan is Isabelle’s,” Alexis instructed. “Put hers in one room and mine in the other. Thanks!”